77

The History of Bioelectromagnetism

For the adverse health efects from HVDC transmission lines, the Board asked the Minnesota

Department of Health (MDH) to report on the health and safety efects of both HVDC and HVAC lines

(Banks et al., 1977). Te MDH completed the task with its conclusions as follows:

With regard to HVDC transmission, insufcient research and experience exists to propose any

meaningful performance standards, whether empirically based or otherwise, that have an objec­

tive of protecting the public health. As a general observation, there does not seem to be as much

concern among the scientifc community over DC electric felds. However, this position appears to

be based on extremely limited information. In particular, the whole issue of the space charge feld

needs investigation and clarifcation. For example, air ions have been suggested as responsible for

both adverse and benefcial efects. Te subject is controversial and considerable further research is

unquestionably warranted.’ (III-22-23), ’because of the unique importance of the HVDC transmis­

sion line environment to Minnesota, and the State must ensure that an adequate research program

is undertaken at the proper time (IV-29).

Banks et al. (1977)

Te State of Minnesota established the MEQB and approved a route of ±400 kV HVDC transmission

line on June 3, 1976. To approve it, the State required the MEQB to study ozone levels and the efects

of ozone on crops. But a movement against the construction of the power lines in Minnesota’s Grant,

Meeker, Stearns, and Traverse counties had been launched. Te opposition grew outside the courthouse,

bringing farmers and power company employees face-to-face (Figure 2.18).

In 1977, a science court of experts met to address the unresolved issues, including the health and

safety issues related to transmission lines, the impact on agriculture, the necessity of transmission

FIGURE 2.18 Demonstration and protests in Lowry, Minnesota (Courtesy of Mike Knaak, from Wellstone and

Casper, 2003.)